Growing Farms for the Future in Iowa

As we tour rural America gathering the thoughts and ideas on how we can help people revitalize and rebuild their communities, I am struck by the determination and optimism of the people we meet.

Take for example Ryan Hoksbergen of Pella, Iowa. As Hoksbergen introduced himself to Secretary Tom Vilsack the forum, he said, "despite the negative news and stories, there is hope for the industry and for young people to get into farming, it is not all negative, I'm living proof."

You see, Ryan is 31 years old and was determined to build a successful farm operation. Not to be dettered by slumping milk prices and high input costs, in 2001 he started his dairy operation. Today, Ryan's determination and passion for working the land has grown his operation into a respectable working farm. With 70 milking cows on site and another 70 replacements, Ryan sees the future of great opportunity. He has recently expanded his farm to include corn and alfalfa with his sights on further growth.

It is stories like this that drive home one of the key points of revitalizing rural America. We have to keep young people and future generations in rural America but in order to do so we must show them that there is hope and potential in rural areas. For this reason we must continue to invest in our rural areas through infrastructure enhancement, broadband access, education, and health services. If we can create the opportunity, younger generations will provide the determination and passion that Ryan displays.

Permalink  |  Posted at: 11:02AM Aug 20, 2009 by USDAblogger in USDA  |  Add Your Comment Here [0]

Live from the Iowa State Fair...

It was a packed day at the Iowa State Fair. First, Secretary Vilsack was joined by Congressman Leonard Boswell for a rural forum event.



After the forum, Vilsack stopped by the Pork Producers' to help with the grilling and catch up with Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey.





Last stop at the Fair was a KGGO radio to visit Lou and Heather. While there, the Secretary beat the Text Message National Champion; not quite as fast but he was more accurate in texting ZZ Top lyrics.

Permalink  |  Posted at: 04:45PM Aug 19, 2009 by USDAblogger in USDA  |  Add Your Comment Here [0]